If you’re passionate about the sport of cycling and eager to dive deeper into its vibrant culture, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, I’ll take you through the most thrilling series to watch, spotlight the top cycling tournaments around the globe, and introduce you to the highest-ranked international cycling teams.
You’ll also get a closer look at the most supported cycling clubs in the world. Whether you’re looking to follow your favorite teams, understand more about prestigious cycling events, or simply get more involved in the cycling community, this guide has it all. So gear up and get ready to connect with the heart of cycling!
What are the Upcoming Cycling Events in 2024?
It’s time to pedal through the ever-evolving landscape of today’s cycling world, helping you to ride smarter, faster, and with more joy. So, grab your remote and get ready for a cycling spectacle with these events:
1. 2024 Tour of The Basque Country
Location: Etxebarria, Spain
Dates: April 1 – April 6
This thrilling race unfolds over 6 intense stages, showcasing the challenging terrains of Spain’s Basque Country. It attracts some of the world’s top riders, testing their limits in a mix of mountain stages and time trials.
2. 2024 Scheldeprijs
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Date: April 3
Known as the sprinter’s classic, the Scheldeprijs covers a flat 208 km route in Belgium. This one-day race is famed for its high-speed finishes and is a key event for sprint specialists.
3. 2024 Paris-Roubaix
Location: Starts in Compiègne, France, ends in Roubaix
Date: April 7
Often called “The Hell of the North,” this iconic 258 km race is notorious for its rough terrain, including cobbled sectors. It’s a true test of endurance and bike handling, culminating in a dramatic finish at the Roubaix Velodrome.
4. 2024 Brabantse Pijl
Location: Overijse, Belgium
Date: April 10
Covering 205 km, this race acts as a transition between the cobbled classics and the hillier Ardennes classics. Riders face numerous short, sharp climbs that provide a dynamic and unpredictable race.
5. 2024 Amstel Gold Race
Location: Maastricht, Netherlands
Date: April 14
This 250 km race is characterized by its relentless succession of short, steep hills, totaling over 30 climbs, which continually reshuffle the group of contenders.
6. 2024 Tour Of The Alps
Location: Starts in Arco, Italy
Dates: April 15 – April 19
This 5-stage race through the mountainous regions of the Alps is a key preparatory event for the Giro d’Italia, featuring high-altitude finishes and stunning landscapes.
7. 2024 La Fleche Wallonne
Location: Marche-en-Famenne, Belgium
Date: April 17
Famous for its brutal final climb up the Mur de Huy, this 196 km race is a midweek challenge between the Amstel Gold Race and Liège–Bastogne–Liège, forming a crucial part of the Ardennes Classics.
8. 2024 Brittany Classic-Ouest France
Location: Plouay, France
Dates: April 20 – April 27
Spanning 229 km, this race is well-regarded for its undulating terrain that can favor both breakaway specialists and strong sprinters in a typically unpredictable finish.
9. 2024 Liege–Bastogne–Liege
Location: Liège, Belgium
Date: April 21
Known as “La Doyenne” (The Old Lady), this 250 km race is the oldest of the classics. Its numerous steep hills make it a decisive battle among climbers and puncheurs.
10. 2024 Tour De Romandie
Location: La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland
Dates: April 23 – April 28
This 6-stage race through the Swiss mountains is a true test of climbing ability and time trialing, serving as a key indicator of form ahead of the Giro d’Italia.
11. 2024 Eschborn-Frankfurt
Location: Eschborn to Frankfurt, Germany
Date: April 27
Known for its festive atmosphere on Labor Day in Germany, this 217 km race combines challenging climbs with high-speed sections, making it a favorite among both climbers and sprinters looking to showcase their versatility.
12. 2024 Giro d’Italia
Location: Starts in Abruzzo, Italy
Dates: May 4 – May 26
One of cycling’s three Grand Tours, the Giro d’Italia covers 21 stages, including time trials, flat sprints, and high mountain stages. It is famed for its dramatic scenery and passionate fans, offering a stern test of endurance and strategy.
13. 2024 RideLondon Essex 100
Location: London, UK
Dates: May 26
This 200 km race is part of a larger festival of cycling in London and Essex. It combines a unique blend of professional road racing and mass participation, attracting cyclists from around the globe.
14. 2024 Criterium du Dauphine
Location: Starts in Saint-Etienne, France
Dates: June 4 – June 11
Serving as a key tune-up for the Tour de France, this 8-stage race features a variety of challenges, from mountain climbs to time trials, testing contenders in the heart of the French Alps.
15. 2024 Tour of Suisse
Location: Starts in Baar, Switzerland
Dates: June 9 – June 18
Known for its stunning Alpine scenery, the 9-stage Tour of Suisse is a major preparation race for the Tour de France, featuring both high mountain stages and time trials that attract a strong international field.
16. 2024 Tour de France
Location: Starts in Florence, Italy
Dates: June 29 – July 21
The crown jewel of cycling’s Grand Tours, the Tour de France covers 21 stages ranging from flat sprints to grueling mountain climbs and time trials. It attracts the best cyclists in the world and millions of spectators both roadside and via broadcast.
17. 2024 Tour of Poland
Location: Starts in Radzymin, Poland
Dates: July 27 – August 2
This 7-stage race is known for its unpredictable weather and varied terrain, which often leads to dramatic changes in the general classification.
18. 2024 Clásica San Sebastián
Location: San Sebastian, Spain
Date: July 27
Held in the beautiful Basque Country, this one-day race is characterized by its tough climbs and spectacular coastal scenery, making it a favorite among climbers and puncheurs.
19. 2024 La Vuelta a España
Location: Starts in Lisbon, Portugal
Dates: August 17 – September 8
The last of the year’s Grand Tours, La Vuelta often features some of the steepest climbs in professional cycling. The race starts in Portugal, marking a scenic and challenging route through the Iberian Peninsula.
20. 2024 EuroEyes Cyclassics Hamburg
Location: Hamburg, Germany
Date: August 18
This 250 km race is the only WorldTour event held in Germany and is particularly known for its flat, fast course that favors the sprinters.
21. 2024 Benelux Tour
Location: Starts in Breda, Netherlands
Dates: August 21 – August 25
Formerly known as the Eneco Tour, this 7-stage race covers parts of Belgium and the Netherlands and includes a mix of flat stages and Ardennes-style climbs, appealing to all-rounders.
22. 2024 Grand Prix de Wallonie
Location: Beaufays, Belgium
Date: September 11
This one-day race, known for its rolling terrain and strategic climbs, highlights the scenic Ardennes region of Belgium. The route typically features several challenging ascents, culminating in a steep finish that often decides the race.
23. 2024 Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec
Location: Quebec City, Canada
Date: September 13
Part of the Canadian WorldTour one-day races, this 200km circuit in the historic heart of Quebec City challenges riders with its undulating laps, technical turns, and punchy climbs, making it a spectacle of tactical racing.
24. 2024 Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal
Location: Montreal, Canada
Date: September 15
Following closely after the Quebec race, this 206km race uses a circuit through the city of Montreal that includes multiple laps of a hilly course. It’s particularly suited to strong climbers and classic specialists who can handle repeated ascents.
25. 2024 Il Lombardia
Location: Bergamo, Italy
Date: October 5
Known as the “Race of the Falling Leaves,” Il Lombardia marks the end of the cycling season for many riders. This classic one-day race is famous for its beautiful but punishing route through the Lombardy region, featuring steep climbs and fast descents, ideal for climbers and descenders.
26. 2025 Volta ao Algarve
Dates: February 12 – February 16
Location: Algarve, Portugal
Kicking off the European cycling season, this early-year stage race in the picturesque region of Algarve is noted for its diverse stages, including flat sprints and mountainous climbs. It’s a great opportunity for riders to test their off-season training results and gain early momentum for the year.
What are the Best Series to Watch in Cycling?
Wondering where to start your cycling obsession? I suggest streaming the following events:
1. Orange Seal Pro Cup p/b Vailocity + UCI XCO Junior Series (C1)
This series combines professional and junior cross-country races, providing a platform for elite and emerging talents. With its C1 status, the competition is fierce, and the courses are crafted to push the riders’ technical and endurance limits.
2. Tennessee National (C1)
A highlight in the mountain biking calendar, this event features a challenging course that tests riders with natural and artificial obstacles. It’s a spectacle of skill and stamina, attracting top competitors from around the globe.
3. US Pro Cup presented by Ozark Foundation (C1)
Set in the picturesque Ozarks, this race draws professional mountain bikers to its demanding routes. It’s celebrated for comprehensive challenges that test climbing, descending, and technical skills.
4. US Pro Cup presented by Ozark Foundation + UCI XCO Junior Series (HC)
With an HC classification, this event offers a high-level challenge for both professionals and juniors. It’s a unique opportunity to see young riders measure up against seasoned pros in a rigorous environment.
5. Piney Hills Classic + UCI XCO Junior Series (C2)
Part of the junior series, this event in Piney Hills tests junior cyclists with its technical sections and quick descents. It’s a perfect venue for young riders to showcase their growing skills.
6. American Continental Championships – XCO – XCC – XCE – XCR (CC)
This continental championship covers all major mountain biking disciplines, attracting the continent’s top talent. Competitors battle across multiple events, highlighting diverse biking skills.
7. Englewood Open + UCI XCO Junior Series (C1)
Known for its engaging course, the Englewood Open is a test of endurance and skill, attracting both professional and junior cyclists in a competitive environment.
8. Showdown at Angler’s Ridge (C1)
Set against a scenic backdrop, this race challenges participants with its dynamic and technical course. It’s a must-watch for fans of intense mountain bike racing.
9. Missoula XC – Mountain Bike (C1)
Renowned for its demanding cross-country course, this race in Missoula is a true test of physical fitness and biking technique. It draws enthusiasts who appreciate challenging, natural terrains.
What are the Best Cycling Tournaments to watch?
The World Tour calendar is packed with 37 events. I have picked my favorites and ranked them right here for you:
1. Paris-Nice
Often called “The Race to the Sun,” Paris-Nice is a stage race that sees riders traveling from the cold of Parisian outskirts to the warm Mediterranean climes of Nice. It’s known for its dramatic weather changes and has a critical time trial and challenging mountain stages.
2. Ronde van Vlaanderen (Tour of Flanders)
This monumental one-day race in Belgium features cobblestone roads and steep hills known as “hellingen,” making it a true test of endurance and skill. The atmosphere is electric, with passionate fans lining the route.
3. Vuelta a España
The Vuelta is one of cycling’s three Grand Tours, renowned for its brutal climbs and often scorching late-summer temperatures. It frequently produces unexpected results, making it particularly unpredictable and thrilling.
4. Tour de France
The most famous cycling race in the world, the Tour de France is a three-week Grand Tour known for its prestigious yellow jersey and challenging route across France and neighboring countries. It is a spectacle of strategy, human endurance, and breathtaking landscapes.
5. Giro d’Italia
Famed for its dramatic mountain stages and passionate fans, the Giro d’Italia is a race where the world’s best climbers often shine. The pink jersey, or “maglia rosa,” is the coveted prize in this iconic Italian event.
6. Paris-Roubaix
Dubbed “The Hell of the North,” Paris-Roubaix is infamous for its rough terrain, including numerous cobbled sections that challenge even the toughest riders. The race finishes in the iconic velodrome in Roubaix, where epic battles have unfolded.
7. Strade Bianche
Held in Tuscany, Strade Bianche is known for its white gravel roads and beautiful Italian landscapes. It’s a younger race but has quickly become a favorite due to its picturesque course and tough, dusty conditions.
8. Tour of Romandie
This Swiss stage race is noted for its mountainous profile and often inclement weather. It’s a key preparatory race for the Giro d’Italia, featuring both climbing stages and time trials.
9. BinckBank Tour
This multi-stage race takes place in Belgium and the Netherlands. It’s known for its flat, fast stages and intense time trials, making it a test of all-round cycling ability.
10. E3 Harelbeke
A key warm-up race for the Tour of Flanders, E3 Harelbeke features similar cobblestone sections and steep climbs. It’s a favorite among classic specialists looking to test their form.
11. Amstel Gold Race
Taking place in the Netherlands, this race is characterized by its short, sharp hills and narrow roads. The final kilometers, with the finish in Valkenburg, are particularly explosive and exciting.
12. Il Lombardia
Known as the “Race of the Falling Leaves,” Il Lombardia is one of the last major races of the season. This Italian classic is noted for its challenging climbs and beautiful autumnal scenery.
13. Liège-Bastogne-Liège
One of the oldest classics, it’s often called “La Doyenne” and features some of the steepest climbs in Belgium. The race is a test of endurance and strategy, with a storied history in professional cycling.
14. Milan-San Remo
The longest one-day race on the calendar, Milan-San Remo is known as “La Primavera.” It’s famous for the Poggio climb, where attacks in the final kilometers often determine the winner.
15. Eschborn-Frankfurt
This one-day race in Germany is held on May 1st, International Workers’ Day, and features urban circuits and short climbs. It’s a sprinter’s event, concluding with high-speed finishes in Frankfurt.
16. GP Montreal and GP Quebec
These Canadian races are held on circuits that feature rolling terrain and challenging climbs. GP Quebec is noted for a tougher finish, while GP Montreal tests consistency and endurance.
17. Volta Catalunya
This Spanish stage race is known for its mountainous stages and serves as an early-season test for climbers. It features historic routes and often includes challenging weather conditions.
18. Dwars door Vlaanderen
A mid-week race between major classics, it features many of the same Flemish hills and cobbles as the Tour of Flanders. It’s a great showcase for riders who excel in the spring classics.
19. Cyclassics Hamburg
The only WorldTour one-day race in Germany, this event is particularly suited to sprinters. The course is relatively flat, making it one of the fastest classics.
20. Amgen Tour of California
This American stage race has become a favorite for its scenic routes and challenging stages that include mountain-top finishes and time trials. It attracts a strong international field.
21. Criterium du Dauphine
A key preparatory race for the Tour de France, the Criterium du Dauphine is held in the French Alps and features a mix of mountain stages and time trials. It’s a critical test of form, attracting many top contenders for the Tour.
22. Gent-Wevelgem
This classic Belgian race is known for its challenging mix of windy flatlands and short, steep climbs, including the infamous Kemmelberg. It’s often affected by wind, making it a tactical and unpredictable race that favors strong, versatile riders.
23. Tour Down Under
The Tour Down Under is the first event on the WorldTour calendar, taking place in South Australia. It’s known for its warm weather, welcoming crowds, and sprint-friendly stages, though the occasional hilltop finish can shake things up.
24. Omloop Het Nieuwsblad
Marking the start of the European road cycling season, Omloop Het Nieuwsblad features many of the same roads and climbs as the Tour of Flanders. It’s a chance for classics specialists to prove their early season form.
25. Vuelta Pais Vasco (Tour of the Basque Country)
This is a notably tough week-long stage race in Spain’s Basque Country, characterized by its steep climbs and technical descents. It’s a favorite among climbers and stage racers who excel in challenging terrains.
26. La Fleche Wallonne
Famous for its finish on the steep Mur de Huy, La Fleche Wallonne is a race where positioning and climbing ability are key. The repetitive ascents of the Mur make for a grueling and tactical battle among the world’s best climbers.
27. Tour de Suisse
Held in June as a final tune-up for the Tour de France, the Tour de Suisse features a variety of stages that test riders’ climbing, time trialing, and sprinting abilities. It’s known for its scenic routes and tough mountainous terrain.
Each of these races offers unique challenges and showcases the incredible skill, endurance, and tactical acumen of the world’s top cyclists. Whether it’s the cobblestones of Belgium, the high mountains of France and Italy, or the scenic circuits of North America, these events are highlights of the cycling season, attracting fans from around the globe.
What are Top Ranked International Cycling Teams?
The rankings of international cycling teams vary year by year based on their performance in various races and the UCI points they accumulate. But we all have our favorites, don’t we?
Well, here are some of the top-ranked international cycling team, known for their achievements in WorldTour events, Grand Tours, and other significant competitions:
1. Team Jumbo-Visma
Based in the Netherlands, Team Jumbo-Visma is renowned for its strong performances in Grand Tours and classic races. They have a well-rounded team that excels in both flat stages and mountainous profiles.
2. INEOS Grenadiers
Formerly known as Team Sky, this British team is one of the most successful in the Grand Tours, with multiple Tour de France victories. They are known for their strategic racing and depth in the roster, including some of the world’s top climbers and time trialists.
3. UAE Team Emirates
This team has risen rapidly in the rankings, thanks to successful recruitment and significant wins, including Grand Tour victories. They have a strong lineup of climbers and sprinters.
4. Deceuninck-QuickStep
Based in Belgium, Deceuninck-QuickStep is often referred to as the “Wolfpack” and is known for its dominance in the Spring Classics and sprints. They have consistently been one of the top teams in the UCI WorldTour rankings.
5. BORA-hansgrohe
A German team that has shown versatility and strength across various types of races, including stage races and classics. They have some of the best sprinters and climbers in the sport.
6. Trek-Segafredo
An American team with a strong international presence, known for its competitive edge in both one-day races and Grand Tours. They have a balanced team with experienced leaders and promising young talent.
7. Movistar Team
This Spanish team has a long history of success, particularly in the Grand Tours, with a strategy often centered around strong climbers and stage racers.
8. Astana-Premier Tech
A team from Kazakhstan, Astana has consistently performed well in stage races and Grand Tours, with a focus on aggressive, attacking cycling.
9. Groupama-FDJ
A French team known for its sprinting prowess and consistent performances in stage races. They have nurtured several top French cyclists.
10. AG2R La Mondiale
Also based in France, AG2R La Mondiale has a reputation for being particularly strong in the mountain stages of Grand Tours and maintaining a solid presence in the classics.
What are the Most Supported Cycling Clubs In The World?
Here’s a quick look at the most supported cycling clubs around the world:
| Rank | Club Name | Location | Key Features and Activities | Membership Fee and Notes | Website |
| 1 | Beach Cities Cycling Club | Redondo Beach, California | Rides range from 20 to 70+ miles, “Bun Ride” to local eateries, community outreach through a Youth Safety Education Program | $25/year; free one-time trial ride | beachcitiescyclingclub. wildapricot.org |
| 2 | Portland Velo Cycling Club | Portland, Oregon | Designated ride leaders for various speeds, signature Saturday rides, terrain varies weekly | $30/year; out-of-towners welcome | pdxvelo.com |
| 3 | New York Cycle Club | New York City | Offers rides from 35 to 100 miles, diverse activities including point-to-point rides, emphasizes welcoming new riders | $30/year; $1 for a 1-month trial | nycc.org |
| 4 | Fort Worth Bicycling Association | Fort Worth, Texas | Weekly rides covering 20 to 65 miles, various social events, annual rides and picnics | $25/year; non-members can drop in | fwbaclub.org |
| 5 | Cleveland Touring Club | Cleveland, Ohio | Weekday rides with multiple speed groups, special rides, social events including food parties and fundraising rides | $25/year; out-of-towners can join rides | clevelandtouringclub.org |
| 6 | San Jose Bike Party | San Jose, California | Monthly 21-mile themed rides, supports local events, special group rides like females-only and kid-friendly rides | Free; no registration required | sjbikeparty.org |
| 7 | Coastal Cyclists | Charleston, South Carolina | Rides range from 10 to 50 miles, annual oyster roast and holiday party, cycling safety advocacy | $25/year; out-of-towners need to follow club safety requirements | coastalcyclists.com |
| 8 | Twin Cities Bicycling Club | Minneapolis-Saint Paul, MN | Over 1,600 rides a year, summer social rides often include meals, ride categories from leisurely to challenging | $30/year per individual, $45/year per household; guests $3/ride | biketcbc.org |
| 9 | Metro Atlanta Cycling Club | Atlanta, Georgia | Promotes cycling in the black community, varied weekly rides, annual “One Love Century” charity ride | $35; welcomes non-members and out-of-towners | maccattack.com |
| 10 | Bicycle Club of Philadelphia | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Rides range from 10 to 60 miles, various social and educational events, discounts at local bike shops, annual picnic and banquet | $20/year; $10/year for students. Non-members welcome on rides | phillybikeclub.org |
Who are the Current Best Cyclists to Watch?
Cycling boasts numerous talented riders who consistently excel in different disciplines, from Grand Tours to one-day classics. Here’s a list of some of the top cyclists currently dominating the sport:
1. Tadej Pogačar
Nationality: Slovenian
Team: UAE Team Emirates
Specialty: General Classification in Grand Tours
Multiple Tour de France victories, winner of various one-day classics including Liège–Bastogne–Liège. Two-time Tour de France winner by age 23, known for his competitive spirit. After a setback from a crash, his form is a question mark for this year’s Tour.
2. Wout van Aert
Nationality: Belgian
Team: Team Jumbo-Visma
Specialty: Classics, Time Trials, Sprint finishes
Winner of several Monument classics, stages in all three Grand Tours, and dominant performances in cyclocross. He is a versatile rider who excels in sprints, time trials, and mountain stages. Known for his cyclocross background, he’s won several one-day races and Tour de France stages.
3. Mathieu van der Poel
Nationality: Dutch
Team: Alpecin-Fenix
Specialty: Cyclocross, Classics, Mountain Biking
Multiple Cyclocross World Championships, victories in prestigious one-day races like the Tour of Flanders and Strade Bianche. Cyclocross champion and competitive road racer; has won the Tour of Flanders and wore the Tour de France yellow jersey. Also competes in mountain biking.
4. Primož Roglič
Nationality: Slovenian
Team: Team Jumbo-Visma
Specialty: Grand Tours, Time Trials
Roglič started his career as a ski jumper before switching to cycling. He’s won the overall general classification in the 2023 Giro d’Italia, and three times at the Vuelta a España. He also has a string of wins in shorter stage races and one-day races to his name.
5. Julian Alaphilippe
Nationality: French
Team: Deceuninck–Quick-Step
Specialty: Classics, Hilly one-day races
Two-time World Road Race Champion, multiple stage wins in the Tour de France, and other classic victories like La Flèche Wallonne. Alaphilippe has a string of one-day road races to his name, as well as the Tour of California and the Tour of Britain. He wore the Tour de France yellow jersey for 14 stages in 2019, before losing it to the eventual winner overall, Egan Bernal.
6. Remco Evenepoel
Nationality: Belgian
Team: Deceuninck–Quick-Step
Specialty: Time Trials, Stage races
World Time Trial Champion, winner of major stage races like the Vuelta a España. Early in his career yet making significant impacts; won the Vuelta a España and World Championships in 2022 and stages at the 2023 Giro before withdrawing due to illness.
7. Mark Cavendish
Nationality: UK
Team: Astana-Qazakhstan
Specialty: Sprinting
Mark Cavendish has won 34 stages of the Tour de France over his career, equaling the record set in the 1970s by Eddy Merckx. In this, his final year before retirement, he will be hoping to add at least one more win to his tally.
8. Egan Bernal
Nationality: Colombian
Team: INEOS Grenadiers
Specialty: Grand Tours
Winner of the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia, known for his exceptional climbing abilities.
9. Marianne Vos
Nationality: Dutch
Team: Team Jumbo-Visma Women
Specialty: Road and cyclocross
Multiple World Champion in both road and cyclocross, numerous victories across various disciplines in cycling.
10. Elisa Longo Borghini
Nationality: Italian
Team: Trek–Segafredo Women
Specialty: Classics, Stage races
Winner of major women’s classics, stage wins in the Giro d’Italia Femminile, and strong performances in the World Championships.
These cyclists represent the pinnacle of professional cycling, excelling across different types of races and consistently providing thrilling performances for fans to enjoy. Their skills, resilience, and competitive spirit make them stand out in the global cycling scene.
Who are the Best Cyclists of all Time?
Choosing the best cyclists of all time can depend on factors like the era they raced in, their cycling discipline, and their overall achievements. However, a few legendary figures consistently stand out because of their incredible careers and lasting impact on the sport. Let’s explore some of the most iconic cyclists, who excelled across various eras and specialties:
1. Eddy Merckx (Belgium)
Often referred to as “The Cannibal” for his competitive nature, Merckx is widely considered the greatest cyclist of all time. He won the Tour de France five times, the Giro d’Italia five times, and the Vuelta a España once. His total of 11 Grand Tour victories is complemented by numerous classics, including three Paris-Roubaix wins and seven Milan-San Remo victories.
2. Lance Armstrong (USA)
Despite his career being marred by doping scandals, Armstrong was initially celebrated for winning the Tour de France seven consecutive times from 1999 to 2005. His titles were later stripped, but his initial victories and comeback from cancer made him a prominent figure in cycling history.
3. Jacques Anquetil (France)
Known for his time-trialing prowess, Anquetil was the first cyclist to win the Tour de France five times. He is also known for being the first to win all three Grand Tours: the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España.
4. Miguel Indurain (Spain)
Indurain dominated the early 1990s, winning the Tour de France five consecutive times from 1991 to 1995. He was also a two-time Giro d’Italia winner and known for his exceptional time-trialing ability.
5. Bernard Hinault (France)
“The Badger” is one of only seven cyclists to have won all three Grand Tours. Hinault won the Tour de France five times, the Giro d’Italia three times, and the Vuelta a España twice, making him one of the most successful cyclists in history.
Who are the Best Coaches in Cycling?
The best coaches in cycling have often played pivotal roles in shaping the careers of top cyclists and guiding teams to success in international competitions.
While many work behind the scenes, several have gained recognition for their expertise, innovation, and contributions to the sport. Here are some of the most respected and influential cycling coaches known for their achievements:
1. Kristof De Kegel
Working with Mathieu van der Poel and the Alpecin-Fenix team. De Kegel is known for his comprehensive approach, focusing on biomechanics, nutrition, and detailed race strategies.
2. Tim Kerrison
His role at Team INEOS (formerly Team Sky), where he has been instrumental in Tour de France victories for Chris Froome, Geraint Thomas, and Bradley Wiggins. Kerrison is renowned for applying scientific methods to training, particularly in altitude training and power-based workouts.
3. Paolo Slongo
Coaching Vincenzo Nibali to major Grand Tour victories, including the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España. Slongo’s expertise in managing rider form and peaking at the right moment has been key to Nibali’s success.
4. Luigi Cecchini
His long-standing career in cycling and triathlon, where he has coached several high-profile athletes, including Bjarne Riis and Tyler Hamilton. Cecchini’s understanding of physiology has helped many cyclists improve their performance dramatically.
5. Iñigo San Millán
His work on mitochondrial health and metabolic efficiency. San Millán has provided coaching and physiological insights to many top cyclists, helping them optimize their endurance and recovery.
6. Sylvain Chavanel
After an illustrious career as a professional cyclist, Chavanel transitioned to coaching, where he uses his extensive experience in classics and stage races to guide younger riders.
7. Riccardo Riccò
Despite a controversial career as a rider, Riccò has moved into coaching, where he brings a deep understanding of race tactics and cyclist development.
8. Merijn Zeeman
As the sportive director and coach for Jumbo-Visma, Zeeman has been key in developing the team into a Grand Tour-winning force, helping riders like Primoz Roglic and Tom Dumoulin reach their peak.
What are the Best Cycling Routes in the World?
Cycling routes around the world offer stunning landscapes, challenging terrains, and unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the best cycling routes that are revered by enthusiasts and professionals alike:
1. Great Ocean Road, Australia
This iconic Australian route offers breathtaking ocean views along the southeastern coast. Stretching over 243 kilometers, it combines coastal scenery with rolling hills, making it a favorite for both scenic and challenging rides.
2. Route des Grandes Alpes, France
This famous route takes riders through the French Alps, from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. It covers several legendary Tour de France cols and offers spectacular mountain scenery across 700 kilometers.
3. The Danube Cycle Path, Europe
One of the most popular cycling routes in Europe, this path runs alongside the Danube River from Germany to Hungary, passing through Austria and Slovakia. It’s well-paved, mostly flat, and offers rich cultural experiences as it winds through picturesque towns and cities.
4. Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany provides a quintessentially Italian cycling experience with its rolling hills, vineyards, and historic sites. The region’s roads are cyclist-friendly and offer a mixture of challenging climbs and serene stretches.
5. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Running along the California coast, this route offers rugged cliffs, redwood forests, and expansive ocean vistas. Stretching from San Francisco to Los Angeles, it provides cyclists with a challenging and visually stunning experience.
6. La Route Verte, Canada
Spanning over 5,000 kilometers, this network of bike paths covers Quebec’s diverse landscapes, from peaceful countryside to vibrant cities. It’s well-signed and boasts numerous access points for cyclists of all levels.
7. Otago Central Rail Trail, New Zealand
New Zealand’s first-ever Great Ride, this trail runs 150 kilometers through the South Island’s scenic heartland. It’s rich in history and natural beauty, with a flat, gravel path that’s suitable for most cyclists.
8. Amsterdam to Bruges, Netherlands/Belgium
This route is famous for its flat, bike-friendly paths through some of Europe’s most picturesque and culturally rich regions. It passes through charming Dutch and Belgian towns, with plenty of opportunities to explore medieval architecture and enjoy local cuisine.
9. Death Road, Bolivia
For the thrill-seekers, the North Yungas Road offers a daring and adrenaline-pumping ride. Known as the “Death Road” for its precarious path, it descends rapidly from the Andes into the Amazonian rainforest.
10. Mae Hong Son Loop, Thailand
This route in Northern Thailand covers about 600 kilometers through mountains and valleys, featuring over 4,000 bends and offering breathtaking views of rural Thailand, complete with rice paddies and Buddhist temples.
Conclusion
From the steep climbs of the Grand Tours to the fast finishes of the classic races, cycling combines physical challenge and careful strategy. That’s why these cycling events are such an exhilarating watch.
Thanks for joining me on this adventure through cycling today. Keep riding, exploring new paths, and pushing your limits. The road ahead is full of possibilities!
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Jaxon Davis
